Celebrity dog comes through surgery “with flying colors”

GRAND RAPIDS — Even celebrity dogs need some extra care every now and then. That’s why a handsome 6-year-old golden retriever named Charlie came to the BluePearl Veterinary Partners hospital in Grand Rapids last week for surgery on his left hind knee joint.

Charlie stars in the live action and animated series “Charlie & Company”

Charlie is star of “Charlie & Company,” a series of live-action and animated educational videos which are aimed at pre-schoolers ages 3-5. The videos are produced by the Michigan-based firm School Zone. In the videos, Charlie and his co-star Miss Ellie solve the puzzles that come up in daily life.

Dr. Amanda Conkling performed the surgery, called a TPLO, to treat Charlie’s torn cruciate ligament. “Charlie came through surgery with flying colors,” said Conkling, who is board-certified in veterinary surgery. She said Charlie “exudes happiness” and that, “you really can’t help but smile when you meet him and somehow you wind up rubbing his belly.”

Charlie with his “anytime teacher” Miss Ellie (Danielle Augustine)

Charlie’s owner Jonathan Hoffman said his dog is doing well as he begins his recovery. “Charlie inspires me every day and fills me with hope and love,” Hoffman said. “I just believe he can do the same with children.”